More than 100 women will receive the Freedom of the City of London to commemorate the centenary of the Representation of the People Act 1918.

The Court of Common Council, the City of London Corporation’s top decision-making body, has today set the final seal of approval upon the Freedoms, paving the way for ceremonies to take place at Guildhall over the coming months.

Last year, the City Corporation agreed to mark 100 years of female suffrage with the award of the Freedom by inviting members of the Court of Common Council and colleagues in their City of London Wards to nominate candidates.

Drawn from a wide range of backgrounds - but all of them with a connection to the City - the 106 women include:

Jodie Whittaker, Guildhall School of Music & Drama graduate and actor, best known as the first female Doctor in Doctor Who

Catherine McGuinness, Policy Chair at the City of London Corporation, said:

“Many congratulations to everyone who accepted the City’s invitation to receive the Freedom of the City of London, among them, a restaurateur, actor, florist, ecologist, beauty salon owner, town planner, and the Bishop of London.

“My colleagues shared my enthusiasm to invite women from as many walks of life as possible, and I am very encouraged that we have exceeded our target of 100 women, and that we are announcing the news ahead of International Women’s Day.

“I hope that our new Freemen enjoy attending their ceremonies at Guildhall and will take pride in their Freedom, which is one of our most historic and celebrated traditions.”

The Freedom of the City of London is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade; and today, people are nominated for, or apply for, the Freedom, because it offers them a link with the historic City of London and one of its ancient traditions.

The Freedom is also offered to individuals by the City of London Corporation to help celebrate a significant achievement, or to pay tribute to their outstanding contribution to London life or public life.

The City Corporation is the fourth largest funder of heritage and cultural activities in the UK and invests over £100m every year.

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Recipients of the Freedom of the City of London:

The following women have agreed to be listed as recipients of the Freedom of the City of London award, as part of the City of London Corporation’s ‘100 Women for the Freedom’ campaign: